Today we’d like to introduce you to Nicole Chamberlain.
Nicole, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
My journey as a jewelry designer began in the 1980s when I was just a little girl with a fascination for creating unique pieces. I started by making porcelain head brooches, melting multicolored plastic in the oven to form hats, and gluing feathers on them to sell to the women at church. My passion for jewelry was nurtured by my love for garage sales and antique treasures.
My grandmother, Janet, taught me the art of haggling, and I vividly remember purchasing a beautiful opal ring for just 75 cents, a piece I still cherish today.
As I grew older, I would deconstruct vintage jewelry from thrift stores and repurpose the pieces into more modern designs. This creative hobby eventually evolved into a business, and in 2017, I launched my brand, Urbane Cole. My first pop-up event was held in a community room at an apartment complex in Richardson, Texas, where eight people attended, and everyone bought something. This modest beginning marked the start of a growing brand.
Through partnerships with local boutiques and collaborations with prominent brands like Origins and Chantecaille Cosmetics, I gained opportunities to showcase my work at Neiman Marcus in Dallas and Fort Worth.
Today, I have clients all over the United States, but my business remains deeply rooted in local support. My local clientele continues to be the backbone of my brand, and their support has been instrumental in my journey as a jewelry designer.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
My journey as a jewelry designer has been far from smooth, marked by tremendous growth, humility, and moments of frustration, yet ultimately filled with joy.
Navigating the fine line between creating art and building a business has been a complex challenge. Balancing my unique design aesthetic and the integrity of my brand with the ever-changing demands of clients and industry trends has required constant adaptation and learning. Each step has been a testament to perseverance and passion, teaching me the importance of listening to my client’s needs while staying true to my creative vision. Despite the hurdles, the joy of seeing my designs resonate with people makes every struggle worthwhile.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
As a jewelry designer, I create bold, statement pieces from ethically sourced, sustainable materials, ensuring that each creation is unique and not mass-produced. I specialize in upcycling and customization, transforming vintage elements into contemporary artful designs.
I curate exclusive collections for boutiques, offering one-of-a-kind jewelry that reflects my commitment to quality and creativity.
What I am most proud of are the relationships I’ve built within the community and the loyalty of my clients. These relationships and partnerships are the foundation of my brand, and their support is what truly drives my passion for this craft.
Risk-taking is a topic that people have widely differing views on – we’d love to hear your thoughts.
Putting my art out into the world has been one of the most significant risks I’ve taken as a jewelry designer. It requires embracing vulnerability and freeing myself from the weight of others’ opinions about my work.
At the beginning of my journey, I struggled with this immensely, constantly questioning how my creations would be received.
However, I’ve come to realize that this risk is worth it. The courage to share my unique vision has not only allowed me to grow as an artist but has also connected me with a community that values and supports my craft. This journey has taught me that true artistic fulfillment comes from staying authentic to myself despite the uncertainties and challenges.
Pricing:
- $28-$498
Contact Info:
- Website: www.urbanecole.com
- Instagram: Urbanecole
- Facebook: Urbane Cole
- Linkedin: Nicole Chamberlain
- Twitter: Urbane Cole
- Yelp: Urbane Cole
